By Divine Sam

Former Governor of Delta State, Dr. Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, has died at the age of 71 following a brief illness.

The former governor reportedly passed away on the morning of Monday, October 19, 2026, according to an official announcement by his family.

The family disclosed the sad news in a statement signed by Toju Andre Uduaghan, expressing deep sorrow over the loss of their beloved patriarch, whose years of public service left a mark on Delta State and Nigeria.

The statement, titled ‘ANNOUNCEMENT OF THE PASSING OF HIS EXCELLENCY, DR. CHIEF EMMANUEL EWETA UDUAGHAN’, read:

“It is with hearts weighed down by immeasurable grief and profound sorrow that we announce the passing to glory of our beloved Father, Brother, Uncle, and Patriarch, His Excellency, Dr. Chief Emmanuel Eweta Uduaghan, former Governor of Delta State, who departed this world on the morning of 19th October 2026.

“His passing has left us devastated. Words can hardly express the depth of our sorrow at the loss of a man who meant so much to our family and whose life and service touched countless others across Delta State and Nigeria.

“He was a source of strength, a father figure, a beloved brother and uncle, and a respected elder. We will deeply miss his presence and forever cherish the memories and legacy he leaves behind.

“He served as Commissioner for Health from 1999 to 2003, Secretary to the Delta State Government from 2003 to 2007, and Governor of Delta State from 2007 to 2015. Throughout his years in public service, he demonstrated a commitment to the human and infrastructural development of Delta State.

“His passing is a profound loss to our family, the people of Delta State, and Nigeria at large. We are grateful to Almighty God for his life, his service, and the legacy he leaves behind.

“We pray that Almighty God, in His infinite mercy, will grant his soul eternal rest and comfort our family, friends, associates, former colleagues, and all who mourn this painful loss.

“Rest well, our beloved Father, Brother, and Uncle. Your memory will forever remain in our hearts, and your legacy will endure in the lives of those you touched.

“May your gentle soul rest in perfect peace. Amen.”

Uduaghan served as Delta State Commissioner for Health between 1999 and 2003 before becoming Secretary to the State Government, a position he held from 2003 to 2007. He subsequently served as governor for two terms, from 2007 to 2015.

During his time in office, he was involved in the administration and development of the state, particularly in the areas of healthcare and infrastructure.

His death marks a significant loss to his family, political associates, the people of Delta State and the country at large. Condolences are expected to continue pouring in as news of his passing spreads.

May his soul rest in peace.